String of Fires Break Out in Isla Vista and Goleta Overnight

In a sudden outbreak, multiple fires erupted in Isla Vista after midnight on Wednesday, prompting a swift response from the Santa Barbara County firefighters.

The incidents included a furniture fire on Abrego Road, two simultaneous dumpster fires at different locations on El Colegio Road, and a spot fire at Girsh Park.

According to the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, firefighters were dispatched to four separate fire incidents, all of which occurred within an hour of each other. The engagement of the department ensured that all the fires were dealt with efficiently.

Multiple Fires: Isla Vista /Goleta. Series of small exterior fires over an hour period, 6600 Blk Abrego Rd-furniture fire, 6711 (minor build. damage) & 6750 El Colegio Rd- (two) 40’ dumpster fires, & Girsh Park- 30’x30’ spot fire. No injures. Cause under investigation. CT00:02am pic.twitter.com/FyTgorO3ot

— Scott Safechuck (@SBCFireInfo) July 3, 2024

Fortunately, no injuries were reported from any of the fires. However, there was property damage, including the destruction of the furniture, damage to the dumpsters, and some minor building damage at the 6711 El Colegio Road site, as reported by the Fire Department.

The connection, if any, between the fires remains unclear, and investigations into each of them are ongoing, as shared by the Santa Barbara County Fire officials.

At the apartment complex fire, also on El Colegio Road, the intensity of the blaze was notable.

According to the Fire Department, the fire was very hot when crews arrived. Nevertheless, it was extinguished within a mere 15 minutes.

Subsequently, the aftermath of the fire left wet, burnt cardboard boxes labeled “University Furnishings” strewn across the parking lot, suggesting the recent move-out of UCSB students with the school-year end.

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department also reported a small fire at Girsh Park, reaching an extent of 30 feet by 30 feet before it was brought under control.

Multiple Fires: Isla Vista /Goleta. Series of small exterior fires over an hour period, 6600 Blk Abrego Rd-furniture fire, 6711 (minor build. damage) & 6750 El Colegio Rd- (two) 40’ dumpster fires, & Girsh Park- 30’x30’ spot fire. No injures. Cause under investigation. CT00:02am pic.twitter.com/FyTgorO3ot

— Scott Safechuck (@SBCFireInfo) July 3, 2024

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department reminds residents and visitors about the importance of fire safety and encourages people to visit their Ready-Set-Go webpage for more information on how to stay prepared.

Residents of Isla Vista and the surrounding communities are hopeful for a quick resolution to the investigation, as authorities work to determine the cause and prevent future incidents.